The Portage between South Lake and Topper Lake

Portaging Direction: From Topper Lake to South Lake

This is a steep portage. It drops about 250 feet in a quarter-mile. The trail is generally in good shape. Just before reaching South Lake, the trail becomes steep enough that you may need to use a tree for a handhold or set down your gear to safely navigate this area. Just after leaving Topper Lake, the portage intersects the Border Route Trail. There is a sign here. The landing on Topper Lake is pretty good. The South Lake landing is full of rocks. This portage is just west of BWCA Campsite 608.

Now that you've made it over the portage, visit: SOUTH LAKE

Portaging Direction: From South Lake to Topper Lake

The landing on South Lake is full of rocks and the footing is a little dicey here. Most folks heading to Topper Lake will find this to be a challenging portage. This portage gains 250 feet of elevation in just 80 rods. The steepest part of the climb is just as you're leaving South Lake. The portage intersects the Border Route Trail not long before reaching Topper Lake. At Topper Lake there is a fairly good canoe landing.

Now that you've made it over the portage, visit: TOPPER LAKE

Return to the BWCA Portage List